laser hair removal and red hair

Stevesgirl started this discussion · 4/1/2012

Does anyone know if you can do laser hair removal (professional) if you have red hair? Some places I've looked into say it does not work with red hair but there is one place that told me that although it might take 1 or 2 extra times, it will work. Since no place offers a money back guarantee, I am afraid to spend that kind of money to have it not work! Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks

3 replies

kliebowitz · 4/1/2012
You should check out Dr. Arielle Kauvar: http://www.nylaserskincare.com/about-nylsc/1-meet-dr-kauvar/ She's amazing. I've tried a number of laser hair removal places and she is the best I have come accross.I don't know about the red hair situation, but you might as well call in for a consultaion. Pale skin is a must, they will not perform laser hair removal if you have a tan. Paler the skin the better the results. In my experience they have been very overt in terms of what areas will provide results and what areas are not worth the expendiures. However, in general one to two sessions will not do the trick. Generlaly 4-6 sessions depending on the area as some areas are more stubborn than others. I would ask them about the intensity of hte laser becuause there are different settings and perhaps you will be able to do fewer sessions with the results you want if you can use a higher laser setting, but defnitley ask about this because i am not totally sure. Also, you may experince ingrown hairs, whic can be avoided if you regularly keep up with visits for treatments every 4-6 weeks. If you are short on cash and need to spread the treatments out over timet ask for a prescription of Clindamycin Phosphate topical lotion, which prevents ingrown hairs, which are caused by the weakend hairs that make it more difficult to come through. Another alternative is Dangene who works at the core club. I haven't used her for electrolysis, but I do see her for dermatology and she is great. It's pricy, but the results have been worth it for me. Hope this helps.
Stevesgirl · 4/1/2012
Thanks kliebowitz for all the suggestions. My skin so more pale than anyone I know so at least that part works in my favor! Thanks for letting me know about the ingrown hairs and what helps to prevent them and thanks for all the other ideas. Unfortunately, Dr Kauvar is in New York and I am in Colorado - not exactly around the corner! I think my hubby would flip out 😮 if I told him I am flying to New York to get some hair removed!
stylynzy · 4/2/2012
I'm a redhead and tried two different medspas for laser hair removal. Both of them told me it wouldn't work on my red hair. I was grateful that they were ethical enough to tell me and I didn't waste my money.